A colorful new symbol of hope, literacy and community rolled into town on June 12 as the City of Chattanooga’s Office of Early Learning officially launched Sawubona–a first-of-its-kind mobile library, safe space and family resource center designed to uplift children and families across the city.
The eye-catching book bus made its debut at the First Horizon Pavilion with a carnival-themed ribbon-cutting celebration. Families enjoyed games, music, snacks and hands-on activities–all highlighting the bus’s mission: to bring not just books, but belonging and support to Chattanooga neighborhoods.
Derived from the Zulu greeting, Sawubona means “I see you, I value you, you are important to me.” And that message drives the heart of the initiative. Far more than a library on wheels, Sawubona is a warm, welcoming, mobile hub of connection. It aims to meet families where they are–physically, emotionally, and socially.
“Every stop Sawubona makes will spark a new story,” said Jaleesa Brumfield, director of Early Learning for the City of Chattanooga. “Each layer of the bus is intentional. It’s about showing up for our community in the most meaningful ways.”
At its core, Sawubona delivers a triple impact. It functions as a mobile library, stocked with culturally responsive books and offering read-alouds, storytelling sessions, and literacy-focused events. It also serves as a safe space, where children can feel seen, celebrated and secure. In addition, Sawubona operates as a family resource center, connecting families to essential services, local programs, and community partners dedicated to supporting whole-child and whole-family well-being.
The launch also introduced a complementary literacy initiative, “Turn On the Subtitles,” encouraging families to activate subtitles during screen time–a simple tool proven to boost children’s reading development.
Sawubona is the latest initiative supporting the city’s One Chattanooga Plan, advancing equity in early childhood education, closing access gaps, and strengthening neighborhood ties. It also reinforces the city’s investment in family engagement and lifelong learning, especially in underserved communities.
“With every stop it makes, Sawubona brings the city’s vision for equity, connection and community to life,” said Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly. “One child, one story, one family at a time.”
For more information on Sawubona, contact Jaleesa Brumfield at jbrumfield@chattanooga.gov or 423-643-6066.